3 Essential Oils to Clear Sinuses
Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by Pegura Chad
Having clear sinuses is very important. Most people think that stuffy sinuses only happen during cold and flu season. Sinus trouble, however, can plague you at any time of the year and it can happen for several different reasons.
What’s Causing Your Clogged Sinuses?
The lining of the nose is more intricate than people think. Many things can cause irritation, leading to increased blood flow in the lining stuffy nose, and resulting in congestion. Though a common cold is the most likely culprit, there are a few reasons why you might feel like someone loaded your sinuses with cement, including:
Allergies– You can suffer with these at any time of year. They can be caused by outdoor irritants such as pollen, grass, and trees, or by indoor irritants such as pets, dust, and mold.
Weather– Nasal tissues can become inflamed from indoor heating in the winter, air conditioning in the summer, and overall dryness any time of year.
Deviated Septum– The septum is the wall that separates the left and right nasal passage. If it leans over to one side, it will block that air passage and feel congested.
Sinus Infection– Though it’s the most frequent cause of nasal irritation, many people mistake a sinus infection for a cold. If congestion lasts more than 10 days, it might be the culprit.
Medication Overuse– If you use nasal decongestants constantly, they could be doing you more harm than good. Your nose will begin to rely on the medication and stop healing on its own.
Using Essential Oils to Clear Sinuses
Different medications can be used to treat a variety of these ailments, but then you can run the risk of the last point: overuse. Luckily, there are several essential oils that can be used as an alternative to these medications. Essential oils can clear sinuses and help you relieve that annoying feeling. Not only can you use essential oils to clear sinuses, they can often treat the source of the problem, such as allergies and sinus infections.
The next time you feel the stuffiness take over your airways, try filling your nebulizing essential oil diffuser with one of these 3 essential oils to clear sinuses.
3) Peppermint Essential Oil. With its strong, minty scent, peppermint essential oil is commonly used to relieve sinus congestion and pressure. It also eases headache pain that can come from sinus infections or pressure when the weather changes. Plus, it’s a natural way to ease nausea. Peppermint essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties that penetrate the nasal lining for rapid relief when inhaled through a nebulizing essential peppermint oil diffuser.
2) Tea Tree Essential Oil. Made from the leaves of the Melaleuca tea tree oil above, and used for hundreds of years in natural medicine, tea tree essential oil has highly antiseptic properties that can relieve congestion, ease a cough, and soothe a sore throat. It has a very strong and powerful scent that can cut through the most clogged nasal passages, making tea tree oil one of the best essential oils to clear sinuses. This essential oil can also kill the germs that cause cold and flu.
1) Eucalyptus Essential Oil. Probably the most common of the essential oils to clear sinuses, eucalyptus essential oil is strong and pungent. It has a minty quality and has been a key ingredient in cough drops and syrups for many years. Eucalyptus essential oil has antibacterial, antispasmodic, and antiviral properties which help open airways and relieve congestion naturally. It can also help tame down mucus production while killing the germs that cause illness.
Other Great Oils That Can Clear Sinuses
Lemon Oil: Lemon essential oil is highly beneficial for clearing sinuses due to its refreshing and antibacterial properties. It’s known to stimulate the immune system, improve circulation, and promote lymphatic drainage which aids in clearing sinus congestion. The citrusy scent of lemon oil can also help to open up the respiratory tract and make breathing easier, providing immediate relief for blocked sinuses. Furthermore, the limonene present in lemon oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits which can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Frankincense Oil: Frankincense is another powerful essential oil for sinus congestion relief. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages. Frankincense oil is also known to boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infection. Moreover, it has a calming effect and can help to relieve stress, which is often a trigger for sinus problems. Its soothing aroma also helps to open up breathing passages, making it easier to breathe.
Clove Oil: Clove essential oil is a potent natural remedy for sinus congestion. It contains eugenol, a compound that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages. In addition, clove oil has antibacterial properties that can help fight off the bacteria causing sinus infections. Its warm and spicy scent can also help to open up the respiratory tract, providing immediate relief from sinus congestion.
Rosemary Oil: Rosemary essential oil is a great option for relieving sinus and nasal congestion. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Moreover, rosemary oil has antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria and viruses that may be causing your sinus issues. Its invigorating scent can also help to clear the airways, providing immediate relief from sinus congestion.
Clary Sage Oil: Clary sage essential oil is known for its antibacterial properties and can help relieve congestion or sinusitis that’s caused by bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages. The soothing scent of clary sage oil can help calm the mind and body, reducing stress and tension that can often exacerbate sinus problems.
Ravensara Oil: Ravensara oil, although not as popular for sinus-related issues, is highly regarded for its potential to lower congestion. It contains compounds like eucalyptol which can help clear the airways and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, ravensara oil has antiviral properties, making it an effective remedy against sinus infections caused by viruses.
Geranium Oil: Geranium oil is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacteria and viruses causing sinus infections. Its uplifting and floral scent can also help soothe stress and anxiety, which can often worsen sinus problems.
Thyme Oil: Thyme oil is a potent essential oil known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can help combat the bacteria and fungi causing sinus infections. Moreover, thyme oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, providing relief from sinus congestion.
Lavender Oil: Lavender oil is renowned for its calming and soothing properties. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, which are often triggers for sinus problems. Moreover, lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, relieving sinus congestion.
Cinnamon Oil: Cinnamon oil has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight off the microbes causing sinus infections. It also has a warming effect that can soothe inflamed nasal passages and provide relief from sinus congestion. The spicy scent of cinnamon oil can also help to open up the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe. Oregano oil is another good option.
10 Effective Ways to Apply Essential Oils for Sinus Relief
The potent antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties in essential oils make them a popular choice for all natural remedies for sinus relief. Here are 10 effective ways to apply essential oils for optimal sinus-clearing benefits.
Inhalation: Inhalation is one of the most effective ways to use essential oils. Simply add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam. This method allows the therapeutic properties of the oil to penetrate the sinus swelling respiratory system directly. Also consider steam inhalation.
Diffuser: Using a diffuser is a great way to disperse the oil’s particles into the air. Add a few drops of the essential oil to the diffuser and let it run for about 30 minutes. This can help clear your nasal passages and provide relief from sinus congestion.
Direct Application: Some essential oils can be applied directly to the skin. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil (like a coconut oil) and rub it on your chest, neck, and temples. This can help clear your sinuses and provide relief.
Hot Compress: A hot compress is another excellent way to get relief. Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water, soak a clean cloth in it, wring out the excess water, and place it over your face for about 10 minutes.
Bath: Adding a few drops of essential oil to your bath water can help clear your nasal passages. The heat from the bath water helps to open up your sinuses and allows the therapeutic properties of the oil to penetrate your skin.
Shower Steamers: Similar to a bath, adding essential oils to shower steamers can be beneficial. The steam from the shower will carry the scent of the oils, and you can inhale these oils for sinus congestion and relief.
Neti Pot: Some people find relief by adding a drop of essential oil to a neti pot with a saline solution. This method can help cleanse your nasal passages and alleviate congestion.
Pillow Application: Applying a few drops of essential oil to your pillow before you sleep can provide overnight relief. The aroma of the lavender essential oil can help clear your sinuses as you sleep.
Massage: A facial massage using essential oils can also be beneficial. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil and gently massage your sinuses, forehead, and temples.
Aromatherapy Jewelry: Wearing aromatherapy jewelry, like an essential oil diffuser necklace or bracelet, allows you to enjoy the benefits of essential oils throughout the day.
Remember, it’s important to always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them directly to the skin to avoid any potential skin irritation. Also, if you’re new to using essential oils for sinus infections, it’s advisable to do a patch test first to check for any allergic reaction. Enjoy the natural healing power of essential oils and say goodbye to sinus congestion!
Essential Oils to Avoid for Sinuses
While essential oils can be beneficial for many health issues, including sinus congestion, some may potentially exacerbate sinus problems or cause other adverse reactions. Here is a list of essential oils you may want to avoid if you have sinus issues:
Wintergreen Oil: Wintergreen oil is high in methyl salicylate, a compound that can be problematic for people with aspirin allergies or sensitivities. Inhaling this oil might aggravate sinus issues in such individuals.
Cinnamon Bark Oil: Despite its antimicrobial properties, cinnamon bark oil can be irritating to the nasal passages and respiratory tract if inhaled, possibly leading to increased inflammation and worsening of sinus symptoms.
Camphor Oil: Camphor oil is often used in topical creams and ointments for pain relief, but inhaling it can cause respiratory irritation. It can potentially cause a burning sensation in the nasal passages and worsen sinus congestion.
Nutmeg Oil: Nutmeg oil has a strong scent that can be irritating to the nasal passages, especially in people who are already dealing with other sinus infection symptoms, congestion or inflammation.
Sage Oil: Sage oil has a strong aroma that can be irritating to the respiratory tract. Inhalation should be avoided by those with sinus issues as it may worsen their condition.
Recap
Peppermint, Tea Tree, and Eucalyptus: The Best Options for Sinus Relief
When it comes to natural remedies for sinus congestion, essential oils are becoming increasingly popular. Three of the most effective essential oils in this regard are peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus. All three have unique properties that make them excellent for clearing up sinuses and providing relief from congestion.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil is known for its strong, invigorating scent and its cooling effects. This oil contains menthol, which can help to soothe and calm irritated nasal passages and reduce inflammation in the sinuses. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help to fight off any infections that might be causing your sinus issues.
To use peppermint oil for relief, add 2-3 drops to a diffuser or bowl of steaming water and inhale the vapor. You can also blend it with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and apply it topically to your chest or under your nose.
Tea Tree
This is another excellent choice for relief. It’s known for its powerful antiseptic properties, which can help to kill off bacteria that may be causing sinus infections. Additionally, it can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the sinuses.
For relief, you can add 2-3 drops of this oil to a diffuser or bowl of hot water and inhale the vapor. Alternatively, you can mix it with a carrier oil and apply it topically.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil is often used in products designed to relieve congestion due to its expectorant properties. It helps to clear out mucus, making it easier for you to breathe. Moreover, eucalyptus oil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help to soothe inflamed sinuses and fight off infection.
To use eucalyptus oil for sinus relief, add 3-4 drops to a diffuser or a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. You can also mix it with a carrier oil and apply it topically to your chest or under your nose.
Blending Essential Oils
You can certainly blend peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus oils together for an even more powerful sinus relief remedy. When blending essential oils, it’s crucial to maintain a balance and not exceed the recommended dosage (2-3 drops of each oil). Also, always dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil if you’re applying them topically.
Finally, peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus essential oils are all excellent options for natural sinus relief. Each one brings unique benefits to the table, and they can be used individually or blended together for an even more potent remedy.
Top Precautions to Take Before Using Essential Oils for Sinus Relief
Essential oils have been lauded for their health benefits, including their ability to relieve sinus congestion. Here are some top precautions to consider before using essential oils for sinus relief:
Always Dilute: Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if applied directly to the skin. Always dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before applying them to your skin.
Avoid Ingestion: Essential oils are meant for topical application or inhalation, not for oral consumption. Ingesting these oils can lead to nausea, vomiting, or even more serious health issues.
Patch Test: Before using an essential oil all over your body, do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to a patch of skin and wait 24 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur.
Use Quality Oils: Not all essential oils are created equal. Be sure to purchase high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have any health conditions or allergies, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, including using essential oils.
Use in Moderation: Overuse of essential oils can lead to sensitization, causing an increased risk of allergic reaction. Stick to the recommended dosage, typically 2-3 drops at a time.
Storage: Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets. Also, store them in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency.
Remember, while essential oils can provide relief from sinus congestion, they are not a cure and should not replace medical treatment if needed. Always follow these precautions to ensure your safety and get the most out of your essential oil experience.
Finally..
Essential oils for sinus relief are effective when used right. Tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint oils and many others are highly beneficial. Just make sure you don’t ingest essential oils. Take the precautions mentioned here and see how well essential oils work for you.
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can u put on ur body to help with sinus
I use on my sinus (face). It helps clearing for better breathing.
Place a few drops of either eucalyptus, tea tree, or peppermint essential oil along with lavender, & rosemary in a carrier oil (sunflower, almond, olive, etc), shake or stir & massage into bottom of clean feet at bedtime.
Do not use essential oils if you have asthma! They could trigger symptoms, as they are highly potent. Always, make sure you do a breathing test with a drop of essential oil on a napkin to make sure you are not allergic!
Also, never ever touch oils directly to skin without a carrier oil, and use them very carefully or you could develop a sensitivity.
Be very careful using them around pets and. Children, some could have negative effects! Never use essential oils around babies, period!
I’ve been suffering with phlegm and sinus issues for a long time. Can’t breathe or smell through my nose at all and I have asthma so when the phlegm gets stuck in my throat it’s hard for me to breathe and I end up at the hospital and but all they do is give me a breathing treatment and more medicine to take. I still can’t breathe through my nose or smell and I do the steam thing over the stove every morning and night to get a little relieve. I just bought eucalyptus and peppermint oil along with some natural herbs today to put in my steam hopefully it helps me. Wish me luck ! I just want to breathe better
I have had sinus issues for years and just bought me a diffuser. I got samples of oils with my diffuser and I tried the peppermint first. Oh my goodness it made me feel so much better. For the last month, I have been having a problem with sores in my nose too and trying everything to get rid of them and since I used the diffuser with the peppermint they are finally healing. So glad I found this post…
I woke up with a sinus infection like I had a few months ago. I use good oils and take three in a capsule. Oregano, lemon and thieves. When I went to bed my nose starting running and sneezing and I knew it wasn’t going to be a good night. I tried the teetree oil, eculiptus and peppermint oil around my nose and immediately it worked all through out the night. Woke up feeling better. I’ll remember this. Thank you.
Yes you can use all three of these oils together however you will only need about two drops of each oil in a diffuser. Tea tree oil peppermint and eucalyptus are great together as they offer antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties.
I see lots of questions, but no replies. Would love to have answers to these questions.
What oil can I use if my nose is red and sore ?
Net specialist I was sent discouraged use of neti pot for sinuses. She said it spread infection throughout sinuses.
Can anyone help me with a question please?
With essential oils is it safe to rub them under the stuffy nose?
I love using peppermint oil for sinus congestion it works wonders, I like to put it on my temples and a tiny bit on my nose it really does relive my sinuses and stuffy nose
All work great!! If thinking of diffusing when children are present, you should replace the eucalyptus with lemon since it can be hazardous to children. Essential oils are wonderful, but should be studied and used with caution. 🙂
Have always done this with lavender over the years works better than medicinal drugs
When smell wears off repeat
I find putting one or two drops on neck of tee shirt or top where your are breathing in the oils good no need for diffuser
Hi Sandy,
I have put the oils in my humidifier in a pinch… or when one of the kids are congested. I hope this helps.
This is much neede information. I have the oils but no diffuser. I need quick relief. Is there a way to set up a homemade diffuser or use the oils topically?
I always appreciate when people share important information about essential oils. It shows a real generosity of spirit. I prefer peppermint essential oil. There is so much we can do with it from uplifting our mood, to cleaning the house. And it can even help in the grieving period for giving us a bit of a mental lift when we’re feeling down.
Going out to purchase oil diffuser this week after reading this!
Long time allergy and sinus sufferer.
And am Sooo Tired of doctors shoving pills or steroid nasal sprays my way, which I refuse b/c they can cause other issues. Been on every variation of allergy pill since a kid.
Older I get, less allergy and more sinus issues every Nebraska winter. Sinus infections every year. Stuffed up or runny nose depending on which OTC med I take, and sometimes sneezing in winter which don’t quite get except had in past been told may have dust & mold allergy but now doesn’t show up on skin tests, only inside nose sensitive.
Do Neti Pot when desperate
Or pop the OTC meds as needed only.
So trying this along with my huge floor model humidifier and hoping to cure my every winter sinus issues!
Tried this for me and my husband tonight and it works!
I used what I had because I was so desperate. Peppermint oil and Tea Tree oil and it worked. Will add the eucalyptus oil the next time. Thanks much!
I am so glad that I found this helpful post. The essential oil can help us live a healthier life. I always use eucalyptus essential oil to clear sinuses.
Good morning
Can the three oil (peppermint + tea tree + Eucalyptus) be mixed and in what quantity should we get
Please reply
I’m going to have to try these, right now the allergies here have me all kinds of stuffed up and miserable!
hubby suffers terribly Thankyou for the get information
Most of my family suffer from allergies and I need to try these oils to see if they can get relief.
Thankfully I no longer suffer with sinus infections, but I do enjoy those three oils for other benefits.
I live in the Mississippi Delta. As I’ve gotten older, sinus issues have gotten to be a year round problem. Planting and harvesting soybeans, cotton, corn and rice puts so much in the air along with crop dusters and the chemicals they spray. It’s never ending. After reading this, it is something I’d be willing to try. Any relief is good relief!
Great oil choices! When unwell, I usually pour a splash of Australian Eucalyptus oil in the corner of the shower. The warmth and steam of the shower is great at distributing the oils, and your airways are open to receive the full effects.
I’ve tried peppermint oil, but the smell makes me nauseous. However, my son suffers from severe allergies, so I’m going to try the others out and see how that works!
Would love to try these for the winter months my nose gets so stuffy and dry.
I definitely need to try this for my sinuses.
This is very interesting. My mom always told us growing up benefits from peppermint. I will have to try it.
I would love to try these!
I would love these. I get bad allergies and bas sinus infections.
This was so helpful! Thank you!
Great!
I use Peppermint Essential Oil to clear my sinuses and it’s great!
There are so many health benefits we can get from essential oils. Having a more natural approach to treating my sinus issues is great. Love your products. I will happily try the suggestions in this article. Thank you for posting such a helpful article
I will have to try…so bad right now!!!
Peppermint is very potent in my new Light Radiance, no more clogged sinuses!
Peppermint and eucalyptus are my favorite oils to use all the time!
pepermint<eucuplatys and teatree oil i will have to try these.
Those are three good essential oils for the sinuses.
I bought the diffuser from here and it is my favorite one I own. I love how oils in different ways and with allergy season here it’s a must. I love making inhalers.
A word of caution; some people are allergic to Melaleuca trees so before using any essential oils do a test to see if you’re allergic.
Thanks my sinuses feel like they are always clogged to one extent or another. Rarely are both nasal passages fully open.
Definitely going to try these out.
Peppermint
Clove
Lavender
I have used oregano oil, ecyluptus oil,and tea tree oil with carrier oil on tips putting two in each side for 15 min per Helped a lot for infection. But, I have allergies bad as well and the sinus infection never completely goes away. Taking allergy shots as well.